Three EU countries to change laws on vehicles

Earlier this month, the Commission requested Germany, Poland and Slovenia to fully transpose into national law the updated European rules regarding the maximum weights and dimensions of certain road vehicles (Directive 2015/719/EU).

These rules, which concern international traffic, play an important role for the functioning of the internal market and the free movement of goods in Europe. Among others, the Directive introduces derogations for heavy good vehicles with improved aerodynamic performance, or for those powered by alternative fuels. This is not to penalise the use of cleaner vehicles, which may be longer or heavier than conventional ones. This Directive should have been implemented by Member States by 7 May 2017. All Member States concerned now have two months to ensure full implementation of the Directive; otherwise, the Commission may refer these cases to the Court of Justice of the EU.